VSP Vision Care has released new findings indicating that US employees are spending close to 100 hours per week on screens, with many reporting productivity challenges linked to screen-related visual discomfort.

The data comes from the third annual Workplace Vision Health Report, conducted by Workplace Intelligence. The survey polled 800 human resource and benefits leaders and 1,200 full-time employees across US organizations. For the first time, the study also included non-desk workers, such as medical professionals, teachers, construction and manufacturing employees, retail and hospitality staff, and public safety personnel.

According to the report, desk workers average 99.2 hours of screen time per week, up from 97 hours the previous year. On weekdays, desk-based employees report spending 93% of their waking hours looking at screens. Non-desk workers report slightly lower but comparable exposure, averaging 87.6 hours of screen time weekly.

The study found that 71% of desk workers and 59% of non-desk workers experience screen-related visual discomfort. Reported symptoms include tired or uncomfortable eyes, blurred or double vision, and difficulty maintaining visual focus after extended screen use.

Employees experiencing screen-related visual discomfort estimate that it reduces their productivity by an average of 18.6%, or approximately 7.4 hours per week. One in 4 respondents said they have taken time off due to discomfort associated with prolonged screen use, reporting an average of 4.5 days of absenteeism annually.

The survey also examined employer practices. About one-third of workers said their companies encourage eye breaks (34%) or provide education on minimizing visual discomfort (32%). At the same time, 87% of HR leaders acknowledged that their organizations could do more to address screen-related visual strain.

“Whether working behind a desk or on the go, healthy vision has a direct impact on job performance, and today’s employees expect their employers to provide high-quality, affordable vision care benefits,” said VSP Vision Chief Insurance Officer Dave Plevyak.

Valerie Sheety-Pilon, OD, senior vice president of clinical and medical affairs at VSP Vision Care, noted that regular eye care plays an important role in identifying and managing screen-related eye issues, including through annual eye exams and early detection of vision and broader health concerns.

Dan Schawbel, managing partner at Workplace Intelligence, said the findings suggest that addressing digital eye strain is a shared responsibility between employees and employers. He noted that 66% of employees surveyed acknowledged they could take additional steps, such as more frequent breaks, to better manage digital eye strain.

The full 2026 Workplace Vision Health Report is available here.